Master Teaching Artist, 2016, Executive Director Dance to Succes
Suzy served FWISD for 30 years as a 7th grade English/History teacher for 7 years, and as a guidance counselor for 23 years.
After retiring from education in 2014, Suzy became a Teaching Artist in 2016. Suzy also serves on the Board of Directors for Metro Dance Club, DFW.
As the Executive Director, Suzy leads the Dance to Success team of Teaching Arist and works closely with client schools, teachers and principals.
“I love being a teaching artist because it is very rewarding to see the transformation of the students as the program progresses and they truly begin to enjoy dancing” - Suzy
Director Teaching Artist Development, Master Teaching Artist, 2011
Owner, DanceMakers of Texas
Amanda has been a Teaching Artist since 2011 and is the current Director Teaching Artist Development. As a full-time certified professional dance instructor, dance studio owner and Director TA Development, Amanda shares her years of experience, love of dance, and passion to teach to the Teaching Artists and students participating in the in-school residency.
Amanda especially enjoys Latin-Style dances and started ballroom dancing in 2008. Amanda has been trained by master coaches from all over the world and is certified by the Texas Association of Salsa Instructors.
Director of Development, Teaching Artist (2018–2020, 2026–Present)
Professional Ballroom & Latin Dance Instructor | Yoga Teacher | Personal Trainer
Eric Bird previously served as a Teaching Artist from 2018–2020 and is returning in 2026, continuing his passion for impacting students through movement and personal development.
Eric is a seasoned instructor specializing in Ballroom, Latin, Country, and Line Dance, with experience teaching students of all ages. In addition to dance, he is a certified yoga teacher and personal trainer, focusing on building confidence, discipline, and overall well-being in every student he works with.
Master Teaching Artist, 2015
Gina has been a Teaching Artist since 2015 and became a member of the Board of Directors in 2024. A full-time certified professional dance instructor and Certified Life and Heath Coach, Gina brings a wealth of knowledge and wonderful energy to the program.
“Beyond dance steps and technique, we practice teamwork, elegance, respect and the experience of inclusion, connection and joy. Dancing facilitates social ability, a sense of connection, and improved self-esteem, while providing the opportunity to fulfill potential and to experience the stuff dreams are made of.” —Gina
Senior Teaching Artist, 2018
Tim has been a Teaching Artist since 2018 and brings joy and excitement to the classroom.
“After a 30-year career, singing and conducting music, I wanted to learn to dance. So, 15 years ago I started my dance journey, and it has become my passion. I’m so excited to have the opportunity to share my love of dance with young people. My hope is that dance will touch their lives, fill them with joy and set them on a path to success.” - Tim
Teaching Artist, 2023
With a lifelong love of dance, Virginia became a Teaching Artist in 2023. “Dancing is dreaming with my feet, the hidden language of my soul, my heart speaking out joy through the movement. I desire to give others the joy of creative, free artistic expression when they dance.” - Virginia
Amanda became a Teaching Artist in 2024. Starting her dancing journey in 2017, Amanda quickly fel in love with the art of dance. Amanda believes dance is the perfect tool as both a creative outlet and a fun way to stay active. "Dance has brightened my entire life, I just want to be that light for my students."
